Watford breezed past the weak challenge of Barnsley 3-0 to maintain their exceptional home form – and make club history in the process.

Goals from Cristian Battocchio, Troy Deeney and Alexander Merkel wrapped up the Hornets' sixth consecutive home win in all competitions without conceding, a feat that has never been achieved before.

The Hornets established a firm grip on the contest inside the opening 20 minutes.

Battocchio opened the scoring with a sweetly-struck shot after five minutes and 12 minutes later Deeney turned in his 17th of the campaign.

The hosts remained completely in control as they passed the ten-hour mark without letting in a goal at home and Merkel came off the bench to add a third after some excellent work by Ikechi Anya.

Beppe Sannino made three changes to the side that went down to a last-gasp defeat at Doncaster Rovers on Tuesday night, one of which was enforced with Mathias Ranegie suspended.

Manuel Almunia had recovered from the illness that kept him out at the Keepmoat Stadium to return between the posts, Davide Faraoni came in at right wing-back while the fit-again Lewis McGugan made his first appearance since the middle of January.

Jonathan Bond dropped to the bench, as did Merkel as Sannino selected four centre-halves among his replacements, primarily because he had no other fit senior players to select from.

This was particularly evident up front as Deeney was only the available front man which meant Anya was pushed further forward.

Lloyd Doyley’s inclusion meant he clocked up another milestone, drawing level with Arthur Woodward at sixth on the club’s all-time list with 432 starts and substitute appearances for the Vicarage Road outfit.

Barnsley started the day second bottom of the table and their problems were exacerbated by hamstring injuries to centre-half pairing Peter Ramage and Martin Cranie, who both limped out of the midweek 3-0 home defeat at the hands of leaders Leicester City.

Manager Danny Wilson decided another three changes were necessary though, dropping Chris O’Grady, Martin Woods and Paddy McCourt to the bench. The five players to come in were Jean-Yves M’Voto and Lewin Nyatanga as the central defensive pairing, Emmanuel Frimpong and Liam Lawrence in midfield while Nick Proschwitz was the lone front man in a 4-5-1 formation.

The Hornets made a positive start, helped by M’Voto slicing a ball forward from kick-off behind for a corner. McGugan took the set-piece from the right and Daniel Tozser wasn’t far away from connecting. But the home side recycled the ball and McGugan swung over a cross from the right but it was too deep for Deeney.

Perhaps unsurprisingly given their problems at the back, the Tykes were looking far from certain defensively in the opening stages and they were caught napping in the second minute when Deeney was played in behind to the right of centre, but he hit a snap-shot wide.

But it didn’t take Watford long to make the breakthrough.

A good pass released Daniel Pudil on the left in the fifth minute and although his cross was behind Anya and Deeney, the ball fell for Battocchio 20 yards out and he had time to take a touch before hitting a sweet half-volley past Luke Steele to make it 1-0.

The visitors had their first effort in the seventh minute when Nyatanga headed a free-kick harmlessly over and then Stephen Dawson cleared the crossbar with a speculative effort from 25 yards.

But for a superb reaction stop from Steele though, Barnsley would have been two down in the tenth minute. Pudil was again the creator, doing well to get the ball across from the byline, Anya dummied it and Faraoni got in front of his man to stab the ball goalwards from the edge of the six-yard box, only to be denied by an instinctive stop by the keeper.

Steele thwarted the Italian again in the 15th minute, keeping out his angled drive from the right side of the area after a neat build-up involving Battocchio, Deeney and Anya. But the keeper was helpless when the Hornets doubled their lead a minute later when they attacked down the left side of the 18-yard box again and although McGugan mishit his attempted shot, Deeney was able to turn and fire home to make it 2-0.

Barnsley might have reduced the deficit soon after when the ball was worked in from the left but Lawrence got his attempt from in front of the near post all wrong and his effort went wide.

A couple of promising counter-attacking opportunities for the hosts aside, play then went through a quiet period until the 28th minute when Dawson was booked for bringing down Faraoni on the edge of the area. McGugan took the free-kick to the right of centre and after his first effort had rebounded back to him off the wall, the midfielder fired the rebound over.

A well-judged defensive header from Gabriele Angella set up Watford’s next attack as he then sensed the opportunity to move forward before lifting the ball out to Pudil, who tried to release Anya in the area but the Scottish international’s touch was just too heavy and this attractive move came to nothing.

Pudil, who was impressing, was the first Watford player to be booked in the 36th minute for a foul on Frimpong and McGugan had another effort soon after but a looping overhead kick never seriously threatened to trouble Steele.

McGugan had the Hornets first attempt of the second half three minutes after the restart when he tried to lob Steele but the former Nottingham Forest man didn’t get enough elevation on the ball.

However, a better delivery from Tom Kennedy might have given the visitors the opportunity to half the deficit in the 53rd minute when he was picked out on the left side of the area by a Proschwitz back heel, but the left-back’s cross towards Lawrence at the far post was too high and strong.

Jacob Mellis was booked two minutes later for throwing the ball down in frustration before Wilson decided he’d seen enough, making a double change in the 59th minute as Lawrence and Frimpong were replaced by O’Grady and Reuben Noble-Lazarus.

Within moments of the substitutes’ arrival though, the Hornets spurned an excellent chance to add a third as an unmarked Daniel Tozser headed an Anya cross from the left down and wide of Steele’s left-hand post with the whole target to aim for.

McGugan’s return to action was ended in the 64th minute when he was replaced by Merkel and soon after the visitors had a rare attempt on goal when Dale Jennings latched onto a loose ball and advanced forwards by firing over from 20 yards.

The Hornets passed the ten-hour mark since they last conceded a goal at Vicarage Road a minute later, although O’Grady had the next attempt but he scooped the ball over the target from 15 yards.

There was little doubt about which team the points were destined for by this stage of the contest but if there were any lingering concerns, they were removed in the 74th minute when some excellent trickery by Anya ended with him pulling the ball back to Merkel on the edge of the six-yard area and he made no mistake to score his first goal in yellow.

Lucas Neill was handed his Watford debut with seven minutes to go when he replaced Doyley but the hosts’ home clean sheet record was close to being ended with four minutes remaining when Proschwitz got on the end of a ball forward and looped it goalwards, only to see it rebound off the bar before it was cleared behind. From the resultant corner, M’Voto sent a header wide.

Luke O’Nien became the latest Academy product the make his first-team debut when he replaced Pudil late on as the Hornets saw out the closing stages without any further alarm to set a record that had been confirmed to the Watford Observer by club historian and statistician Trefor Jones beforehand in case it was to happen.

First half we were fabulous and I thought mcgugan really looked like he had something to prove. Pudil was fabulous until his booking caused him to be a little more reserved but the second half was a far more disjointed affair as Barnsley finally turned up and started contesting the ball - Doyley was Barnsley most dangerous attacking option in the first half!

Lucas Neills cameo was worrying as he went completely AWOL running upfield with no cover before The ball was delivered into where he should have been for Barnsley to hit the bar.

But easily the star of the game was the referee who singlehandledly delivered the most vain of performances - whistling for free kicks but never wanting to indicate who to and booking Pudil for an admittedly late challenge and then refusing to book M'Voto for a challenge on Deeney that could have been used as evidence in Operation Yewtree! then when Tozser stood on the ball and fell over he gave a free kick to us and booked the Barnsley player for (very understandable dissent).

First half we were fabulous and I thought mcgugan really looked like he had something to prove. Pudil was fabulous until his booking caused him to be a little more reserved but the second half was a far more disjointed affair as Barnsley finally turned up and started contesting the ball - Doyley was Barnsley most dangerous attacking option in the first half!
Lucas Neills cameo was worrying as he went completely AWOL running upfield with no cover before The ball was delivered into where he should have been for Barnsley to hit the bar.
But easily the star of the game was the referee who singlehandledly delivered the most vain of performances - whistling for free kicks but never wanting to indicate who to and booking Pudil for an admittedly late challenge and then refusing to book M'Voto for a challenge on Deeney that could have been used as evidence in Operation Yewtree! then when Tozser stood on the ball and fell over he gave a free kick to us and booked the Barnsley player for (very understandable dissent).peter10531089

3 points, shocking referee, dull second half. 10 more like that for playoffs then.
Good to see Mcgugan back, when yes good he's very good and when he's bad he's not really that bad. Would have been a better option than Anya in the more forward position. Too many times Anya was caught offside and was certainly better when out wide or picking up deeper. I think Nando would have had a field day against their defenders alongside Troy who again really put a shift in.
Nice cameo from Luke flattening two players with his first two touches.
Wish we could impose ourselves more against such weak opposition, too many sloppy passes, LD, GA CB, in particular, perhaps it was just all to easy against a team only slightly better than Blackpool.
Pudil my MOM.

3 points, shocking referee, dull second half. 10 more like that for playoffs then.
Good to see Mcgugan back, when yes good he's very good and when he's bad he's not really that bad. Would have been a better option than Anya in the more forward position. Too many times Anya was caught offside and was certainly better when out wide or picking up deeper. I think Nando would have had a field day against their defenders alongside Troy who again really put a shift in.
Nice cameo from Luke flattening two players with his first two touches.
Wish we could impose ourselves more against such weak opposition, too many sloppy passes, LD, GA CB, in particular, perhaps it was just all to easy against a team only slightly better than Blackpool.
Pudil my MOM.grahamwfc

I thought a very competent performance against a very poor side.
Toszer oozes class and Pudil put in a real good shift today.
Bit mystified about giving Neil a short run out; I thought Hoban would benefit better from a run.

I thought a very competent performance against a very poor side.
Toszer oozes class and Pudil put in a real good shift today.
Bit mystified about giving Neil a short run out; I thought Hoban would benefit better from a run.Man from Pinner

Ok so it was a relatively easy three points from a second successive weak team to visit the Vic. However, it is precisely these sort of teams that were turning us over last season. From that I do take some comfort. Would like to see Lucas Neil in the back line against Wigan, his experience is inavaluable. An amusing cameo debut from Luke O'Nien. He ran around like a Jack Russell snapping at every Barnsley player as if his life depended on it and that was some forearm smash too! A great prospect for the future all the same.

Ok so it was a relatively easy three points from a second successive weak team to visit the Vic. However, it is precisely these sort of teams that were turning us over last season. From that I do take some comfort. Would like to see Lucas Neil in the back line against Wigan, his experience is inavaluable. An amusing cameo debut from Luke O'Nien. He ran around like a Jack Russell snapping at every Barnsley player as if his life depended on it and that was some forearm smash too! A great prospect for the future all the same.Surbiton

Ref a bit better than Tuesdays, nice to see McGugan back he did well first half, which coincided with our best play.
Well done to the manager and the team for the great home run of wins and clean sheets, more of the same away please. COTGB's

Ref a bit better than Tuesdays, nice to see McGugan back he did well first half, which coincided with our best play.
Well done to the manager and the team for the great home run of wins and clean sheets, more of the same away please. COTGB'sabbotshornet

Weak oppositions or the last 2 games but if Sannino can keep us passing he ball and beating what's in front of us then I would certainly like to see him have a crack at a full season at the helm!

6 home wins in a row ... 6 comments by 9 pm ...
The doom mongers are quiet!!!!
Weak oppositions or the last 2 games but if Sannino can keep us passing he ball and beating what's in front of us then I would certainly like to see him have a crack at a full season at the helm!VOReason

The first half was great entertainment, could have been 4-0 at half time.. I thought Toszer and Pudil did really well. Doyley was not at his best, poor distribution and loosing the ball going forward. A good result against poor opposition and yet another poor referee!

The first half was great entertainment, could have been 4-0 at half time.. I thought Toszer and Pudil did really well. Doyley was not at his best, poor distribution and loosing the ball going forward. A good result against poor opposition and yet another poor referee!watford4ever

Just as I commented after those painful 5 defeats at home in a row I think it's fair to do the same for the opposite now and congratulate Beppe and the boys for their winning streak and the amazing ten hour continuous clean sheet.

Yes it is a shame about some missed opportunities this season but a top ten finish is still an achievement if you take in to account just how bad our mid season was.

Again today some things to excite us all, Toszers performance again is so assured and I think, a big reason to us playing well again at home. He should be the no.1 priority signing now. Great to see Pudil back to his best and Merkel played the best football I have seen him play when he came on.
Nice to see that despite having 4 centre halves on the bench they are sticking with a stable defence. I have to admit that I thought Marco was past it this season but the decision to play him in the centre of the back 3 has been an absolute master stroke and deserves mentioning!

I would be more than happy to give Beppe the job full time and we have a little longer this season to get some form on the road.

Well done boys for the record. . .

Just as I commented after those painful 5 defeats at home in a row I think it's fair to do the same for the opposite now and congratulate Beppe and the boys for their winning streak and the amazing ten hour continuous clean sheet.
Yes it is a shame about some missed opportunities this season but a top ten finish is still an achievement if you take in to account just how bad our mid season was.
Again today some things to excite us all, Toszers performance again is so assured and I think, a big reason to us playing well again at home. He should be the no.1 priority signing now. Great to see Pudil back to his best and Merkel played the best football I have seen him play when he came on.
Nice to see that despite having 4 centre halves on the bench they are sticking with a stable defence. I have to admit that I thought Marco was past it this season but the decision to play him in the centre of the back 3 has been an absolute master stroke and deserves mentioning!
I would be more than happy to give Beppe the job full time and we have a little longer this season to get some form on the road.
Well done boys for the record. . .culpepper

jasonwatford wrote:
i prefer it when we lose , so quiet on here tonight !!! Cmon doom boys moan about something

Love a challenge!! Faultless performance tho with little to do from Almunia. Excellent from Pudil, Merkel and Angella. Very good Toszer, Cassetti and Deeney. Good from McGugan. OK from Anya. ...and wait for it clappers. .....Battochio (apart from his goal) and Doyley, shocking!! The 2 of them now neck and neck in the race to see who can lose poccession the most in one season. ...flex those thumbs clappers. ..

[quote][p][bold]jasonwatford[/bold] wrote:
i prefer it when we lose , so quiet on here tonight !!! Cmon doom boys moan about something[/p][/quote]Love a challenge!! Faultless performance tho with little to do from Almunia. Excellent from Pudil, Merkel and Angella. Very good Toszer, Cassetti and Deeney. Good from McGugan. OK from Anya. ...and wait for it clappers. .....Battochio (apart from his goal) and Doyley, shocking!! The 2 of them now neck and neck in the race to see who can lose poccession the most in one season. ...flex those thumbs clappers. ..tiger bay

Perspective can be an ever changing target. Last season we lost at Wolves, Peterborough and Bristol City, all relegated and yet we not only made the play-offs, we almost went straight up. It may sound like a broken record, but that to my mind is because it is - we do seem to get an above average percentage of very poor refs, or get the wrong decisions at least. Doncaster away was a clear penalty, fact, not a simple desperate claim from any fan. Here we are with eleven games to go, still mathematically within a chance of the play-offs, yet I think realistically we do not deserve it. I want us to be there, I want us to go up, I never ever want any form of failure at our club. Sadly this season has presented to date maybe four full games of quality and dominance, far too many have been half-hearted, turn up for 60-70 minute affairs. However... that is the beauty of this league. We still have a chance. Does our away form need to start improving - obviously, if we are to have any chance at all. Is that possible? With decent refs, Toszer staying fit, Deeney back to himself, well I think it is. But our away form has been poor results wise. We clearly have the talent, my only question is do all of the players have the desire right now? Not a criticism, just my observation says I don't think they all believe enough. To be very fair to Beppe - he has done a very fine job. Good enough for top six? If the players read this - and I believe they do - it's up to you boys. The fans can only do so much, and they do. They pay to watch, they shout, they want you to win. Why not Watford? Why not? BBC pundits.... are you listening!!!

Perspective can be an ever changing target. Last season we lost at Wolves, Peterborough and Bristol City, all relegated and yet we not only made the play-offs, we almost went straight up. It may sound like a broken record, but that to my mind is because it is - we do seem to get an above average percentage of very poor refs, or get the wrong decisions at least. Doncaster away was a clear penalty, fact, not a simple desperate claim from any fan. Here we are with eleven games to go, still mathematically within a chance of the play-offs, yet I think realistically we do not deserve it. I want us to be there, I want us to go up, I never ever want any form of failure at our club. Sadly this season has presented to date maybe four full games of quality and dominance, far too many have been half-hearted, turn up for 60-70 minute affairs. However... that is the beauty of this league. We still have a chance. Does our away form need to start improving - obviously, if we are to have any chance at all. Is that possible? With decent refs, Toszer staying fit, Deeney back to himself, well I think it is. But our away form has been poor results wise. We clearly have the talent, my only question is do all of the players have the desire right now? Not a criticism, just my observation says I don't think they all believe enough. To be very fair to Beppe - he has done a very fine job. Good enough for top six? If the players read this - and I believe they do - it's up to you boys. The fans can only do so much, and they do. They pay to watch, they shout, they want you to win. Why not Watford? Why not? BBC pundits.... are you listening!!!Henry VIII

Henry VIII wrote:
Perspective can be an ever changing target. Last season we lost at Wolves, Peterborough and Bristol City, all relegated and yet we not only made the play-offs, we almost went straight up. It may sound like a broken record, but that to my mind is because it is - we do seem to get an above average percentage of very poor refs, or get the wrong decisions at least. Doncaster away was a clear penalty, fact, not a simple desperate claim from any fan. Here we are with eleven games to go, still mathematically within a chance of the play-offs, yet I think realistically we do not deserve it. I want us to be there, I want us to go up, I never ever want any form of failure at our club. Sadly this season has presented to date maybe four full games of quality and dominance, far too many have been half-hearted, turn up for 60-70 minute affairs. However... that is the beauty of this league. We still have a chance. Does our away form need to start improving - obviously, if we are to have any chance at all. Is that possible? With decent refs, Toszer staying fit, Deeney back to himself, well I think it is. But our away form has been poor results wise. We clearly have the talent, my only question is do all of the players have the desire right now? Not a criticism, just my observation says I don't think they all believe enough. To be very fair to Beppe - he has done a very fine job. Good enough for top six? If the players read this - and I believe they do - it's up to you boys. The fans can only do so much, and they do. They pay to watch, they shout, they want you to win. Why not Watford? Why not? BBC pundits.... are you listening!!!

Didn't lose at wolves ... They equalised last minute ...

[quote][p][bold]Henry VIII[/bold] wrote:
Perspective can be an ever changing target. Last season we lost at Wolves, Peterborough and Bristol City, all relegated and yet we not only made the play-offs, we almost went straight up. It may sound like a broken record, but that to my mind is because it is - we do seem to get an above average percentage of very poor refs, or get the wrong decisions at least. Doncaster away was a clear penalty, fact, not a simple desperate claim from any fan. Here we are with eleven games to go, still mathematically within a chance of the play-offs, yet I think realistically we do not deserve it. I want us to be there, I want us to go up, I never ever want any form of failure at our club. Sadly this season has presented to date maybe four full games of quality and dominance, far too many have been half-hearted, turn up for 60-70 minute affairs. However... that is the beauty of this league. We still have a chance. Does our away form need to start improving - obviously, if we are to have any chance at all. Is that possible? With decent refs, Toszer staying fit, Deeney back to himself, well I think it is. But our away form has been poor results wise. We clearly have the talent, my only question is do all of the players have the desire right now? Not a criticism, just my observation says I don't think they all believe enough. To be very fair to Beppe - he has done a very fine job. Good enough for top six? If the players read this - and I believe they do - it's up to you boys. The fans can only do so much, and they do. They pay to watch, they shout, they want you to win. Why not Watford? Why not? BBC pundits.... are you listening!!![/p][/quote]Didn't lose at wolves ... They equalised last minute ...VOReason

Henry VIII wrote:
Perspective can be an ever changing target. Last season we lost at Wolves, Peterborough and Bristol City, all relegated and yet we not only made the play-offs, we almost went straight up. It may sound like a broken record, but that to my mind is because it is - we do seem to get an above average percentage of very poor refs, or get the wrong decisions at least. Doncaster away was a clear penalty, fact, not a simple desperate claim from any fan. Here we are with eleven games to go, still mathematically within a chance of the play-offs, yet I think realistically we do not deserve it. I want us to be there, I want us to go up, I never ever want any form of failure at our club. Sadly this season has presented to date maybe four full games of quality and dominance, far too many have been half-hearted, turn up for 60-70 minute affairs. However... that is the beauty of this league. We still have a chance. Does our away form need to start improving - obviously, if we are to have any chance at all. Is that possible? With decent refs, Toszer staying fit, Deeney back to himself, well I think it is. But our away form has been poor results wise. We clearly have the talent, my only question is do all of the players have the desire right now? Not a criticism, just my observation says I don't think they all believe enough. To be very fair to Beppe - he has done a very fine job. Good enough for top six? If the players read this - and I believe they do - it's up to you boys. The fans can only do so much, and they do. They pay to watch, they shout, they want you to win. Why not Watford? Why not? BBC pundits.... are you listening!!!

Didn't lose at wolves ... They equalised last minute ...

Felt like a defeat though hey!

[quote][p][bold]VOReason[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Henry VIII[/bold] wrote:
Perspective can be an ever changing target. Last season we lost at Wolves, Peterborough and Bristol City, all relegated and yet we not only made the play-offs, we almost went straight up. It may sound like a broken record, but that to my mind is because it is - we do seem to get an above average percentage of very poor refs, or get the wrong decisions at least. Doncaster away was a clear penalty, fact, not a simple desperate claim from any fan. Here we are with eleven games to go, still mathematically within a chance of the play-offs, yet I think realistically we do not deserve it. I want us to be there, I want us to go up, I never ever want any form of failure at our club. Sadly this season has presented to date maybe four full games of quality and dominance, far too many have been half-hearted, turn up for 60-70 minute affairs. However... that is the beauty of this league. We still have a chance. Does our away form need to start improving - obviously, if we are to have any chance at all. Is that possible? With decent refs, Toszer staying fit, Deeney back to himself, well I think it is. But our away form has been poor results wise. We clearly have the talent, my only question is do all of the players have the desire right now? Not a criticism, just my observation says I don't think they all believe enough. To be very fair to Beppe - he has done a very fine job. Good enough for top six? If the players read this - and I believe they do - it's up to you boys. The fans can only do so much, and they do. They pay to watch, they shout, they want you to win. Why not Watford? Why not? BBC pundits.... are you listening!!![/p][/quote]Didn't lose at wolves ... They equalised last minute ...[/p][/quote]Felt like a defeat though hey!Ronny oh Ronny Ronny

AngelHornet wrote:
Although he didn't have too much to do, I thought Almunia's handling was very good.

I lost count the of the amount that of times he actually caught the ball and didn't punch! Love that man! Keep it up manu

[quote][p][bold]AngelHornet[/bold] wrote:
Although he didn't have too much to do, I thought Almunia's handling was very good.[/p][/quote]I lost count the of the amount that of times he actually caught the ball and didn't punch! Love that man! Keep it up manuRonny oh Ronny Ronny

Henry VIII wrote:
Perspective can be an ever changing target. Last season we lost at Wolves, Peterborough and Bristol City, all relegated and yet we not only made the play-offs, we almost went straight up. It may sound like a broken record, but that to my mind is because it is - we do seem to get an above average percentage of very poor refs, or get the wrong decisions at least. Doncaster away was a clear penalty, fact, not a simple desperate claim from any fan. Here we are with eleven games to go, still mathematically within a chance of the play-offs, yet I think realistically we do not deserve it. I want us to be there, I want us to go up, I never ever want any form of failure at our club. Sadly this season has presented to date maybe four full games of quality and dominance, far too many have been half-hearted, turn up for 60-70 minute affairs. However... that is the beauty of this league. We still have a chance. Does our away form need to start improving - obviously, if we are to have any chance at all. Is that possible? With decent refs, Toszer staying fit, Deeney back to himself, well I think it is. But our away form has been poor results wise. We clearly have the talent, my only question is do all of the players have the desire right now? Not a criticism, just my observation says I don't think they all believe enough. To be very fair to Beppe - he has done a very fine job. Good enough for top six? If the players read this - and I believe they do - it's up to you boys. The fans can only do so much, and they do. They pay to watch, they shout, they want you to win. Why not Watford? Why not? BBC pundits.... are you listening!!!

Didn't lose at wolves ... They equalised last minute ...

Felt like a defeat though hey!

Bloody did!!!! Yeh!!!!

[quote][p][bold]Ronny oh Ronny Ronny[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]VOReason[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Henry VIII[/bold] wrote:
Perspective can be an ever changing target. Last season we lost at Wolves, Peterborough and Bristol City, all relegated and yet we not only made the play-offs, we almost went straight up. It may sound like a broken record, but that to my mind is because it is - we do seem to get an above average percentage of very poor refs, or get the wrong decisions at least. Doncaster away was a clear penalty, fact, not a simple desperate claim from any fan. Here we are with eleven games to go, still mathematically within a chance of the play-offs, yet I think realistically we do not deserve it. I want us to be there, I want us to go up, I never ever want any form of failure at our club. Sadly this season has presented to date maybe four full games of quality and dominance, far too many have been half-hearted, turn up for 60-70 minute affairs. However... that is the beauty of this league. We still have a chance. Does our away form need to start improving - obviously, if we are to have any chance at all. Is that possible? With decent refs, Toszer staying fit, Deeney back to himself, well I think it is. But our away form has been poor results wise. We clearly have the talent, my only question is do all of the players have the desire right now? Not a criticism, just my observation says I don't think they all believe enough. To be very fair to Beppe - he has done a very fine job. Good enough for top six? If the players read this - and I believe they do - it's up to you boys. The fans can only do so much, and they do. They pay to watch, they shout, they want you to win. Why not Watford? Why not? BBC pundits.... are you listening!!![/p][/quote]Didn't lose at wolves ... They equalised last minute ...[/p][/quote]Felt like a defeat though hey![/p][/quote]Bloody did!!!! Yeh!!!!VOReason

Scothorn wrote:
The season is over - mid table mediocrity - that's why no one is here - 1 point from Bolton, Yeovil, Doncasters is not play off form

Season was over before Tuesday in most fans eyes

Yet c 500 went to Doncaster yet we had over 100 posts across the related articles.

Proves most on here prefer it when we lose

[quote][p][bold]Scothorn[/bold] wrote:
The season is over - mid table mediocrity - that's why no one is here - 1 point from Bolton, Yeovil, Doncasters is not play off form[/p][/quote]Season was over before Tuesday in most fans eyes
Yet c 500 went to Doncaster yet we had over 100 posts across the related articles.
Proves most on here prefer it when we loseVOReason

Scothorn wrote:
The season is over - mid table mediocrity - that's why no one is here - 1 point from Bolton, Yeovil, Doncasters is not play off form

You speak the truth, then get a minus 4 for your trouble!!

Home form of late has been brilliant, but if we take one point from nine against Donny, Yeovil and Bolton it is clear to see where our problems lie.

Not won away since Huddersfield......ba
ck in early October, a shocking 13 away games ago!

[quote][p][bold]Scothorn[/bold] wrote:
The season is over - mid table mediocrity - that's why no one is here - 1 point from Bolton, Yeovil, Doncasters is not play off form[/p][/quote]You speak the truth, then get a minus 4 for your trouble!!
Home form of late has been brilliant, but if we take one point from nine against Donny, Yeovil and Bolton it is clear to see where our problems lie.
Not won away since Huddersfield......ba
ck in early October, a shocking 13 away games ago!bristol hornet

Unless we go on an incredible run - not impossible but unlikely, we are likely to miss out - may be close - on the play-offs.

From Jon Marks commentary on 3CR on Tuesday sounded like we did not get a rub of the green - again. How was that not a penalty and although Ranegie was wrong to react as he did, the defender stamped - imo deliberately - on his hand full studs. It took me a couple of viewings, but the way the Doncaster defender puts his foot down that is a stamping.. Not easy for a ref with good eyesight to see, but one who missed Deeney's non-penalty impossible.

Still home form is impressive. Not conceded since Reading and not one from open play under Sannino or since Yeovil in November.

This squad not reached its full potential - perhaps it never will - but with the likes of Toszer playing well and Deeney and Pudil getting better with each game who knows?

Unless we go on an incredible run - not impossible but unlikely, we are likely to miss out - may be close - on the play-offs.
From Jon Marks commentary on 3CR on Tuesday sounded like we did not get a rub of the green - again. How was that not a penalty and although Ranegie was wrong to react as he did, the defender stamped - imo deliberately - on his hand full studs. It took me a couple of viewings, but the way the Doncaster defender puts his foot down that is a stamping.. Not easy for a ref with good eyesight to see, but one who missed Deeney's non-penalty impossible.
Still home form is impressive. Not conceded since Reading and not one from open play under Sannino or since Yeovil in November.
This squad not reached its full potential - perhaps it never will - but with the likes of Toszer playing well and Deeney and Pudil getting better with each game who knows?soulfulhornet

jasonwatford wrote:
i prefer it when we lose , so quiet on here tonight !!! Cmon doom boys moan about something

I thought the atmosphere in the Rookery was good and would expect that after the final whistle the players would show their appreciation but it seems their families and friends are of more importance, the only player to show his appreciation was Deeney.

[quote][p][bold]jasonwatford[/bold] wrote:
i prefer it when we lose , so quiet on here tonight !!! Cmon doom boys moan about something[/p][/quote]I thought the atmosphere in the Rookery was good and would expect that after the final whistle the players would show their appreciation but it seems their families and friends are of more importance, the only player to show his appreciation was Deeney.Boosey

soulfulhornet wrote:
Unless we go on an incredible run - not impossible but unlikely, we are likely to miss out - may be close - on the play-offs.

From Jon Marks commentary on 3CR on Tuesday sounded like we did not get a rub of the green - again. How was that not a penalty and although Ranegie was wrong to react as he did, the defender stamped - imo deliberately - on his hand full studs. It took me a couple of viewings, but the way the Doncaster defender puts his foot down that is a stamping.. Not easy for a ref with good eyesight to see, but one who missed Deeney's non-penalty impossible.

Still home form is impressive. Not conceded since Reading and not one from open play under Sannino or since Yeovil in November.

This squad not reached its full potential - perhaps it never will - but with the likes of Toszer playing well and Deeney and Pudil getting better with each game who knows?

If only Zola had taken on Saninno as his Assistant last Summer and not his mate Porcu things may have worked out differently. With Zola's attack and Saninno's defence coaching the squad may have reached it's potential.

[quote][p][bold]soulfulhornet[/bold] wrote:
Unless we go on an incredible run - not impossible but unlikely, we are likely to miss out - may be close - on the play-offs.
From Jon Marks commentary on 3CR on Tuesday sounded like we did not get a rub of the green - again. How was that not a penalty and although Ranegie was wrong to react as he did, the defender stamped - imo deliberately - on his hand full studs. It took me a couple of viewings, but the way the Doncaster defender puts his foot down that is a stamping.. Not easy for a ref with good eyesight to see, but one who missed Deeney's non-penalty impossible.
Still home form is impressive. Not conceded since Reading and not one from open play under Sannino or since Yeovil in November.
This squad not reached its full potential - perhaps it never will - but with the likes of Toszer playing well and Deeney and Pudil getting better with each game who knows?[/p][/quote]If only Zola had taken on Saninno as his Assistant last Summer and not his mate Porcu things may have worked out differently. With Zola's attack and Saninno's defence coaching the squad may have reached it's potential.Harry's Bar

soulfulhornet wrote:
Unless we go on an incredible run - not impossible but unlikely, we are likely to miss out - may be close - on the play-offs.

From Jon Marks commentary on 3CR on Tuesday sounded like we did not get a rub of the green - again. How was that not a penalty and although Ranegie was wrong to react as he did, the defender stamped - imo deliberately - on his hand full studs. It took me a couple of viewings, but the way the Doncaster defender puts his foot down that is a stamping.. Not easy for a ref with good eyesight to see, but one who missed Deeney's non-penalty impossible.

Still home form is impressive. Not conceded since Reading and not one from open play under Sannino or since Yeovil in November.

This squad not reached its full potential - perhaps it never will - but with the likes of Toszer playing well and Deeney and Pudil getting better with each game who knows?

If only Zola had taken on Saninno as his Assistant last Summer and not his mate Porcu things may have worked out differently. With Zola's attack and Saninno's defence coaching the squad may have reached it's potential.

Agreed, or at least someone like Sannino

[quote][p][bold]Harry's Bar[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]soulfulhornet[/bold] wrote:
Unless we go on an incredible run - not impossible but unlikely, we are likely to miss out - may be close - on the play-offs.
From Jon Marks commentary on 3CR on Tuesday sounded like we did not get a rub of the green - again. How was that not a penalty and although Ranegie was wrong to react as he did, the defender stamped - imo deliberately - on his hand full studs. It took me a couple of viewings, but the way the Doncaster defender puts his foot down that is a stamping.. Not easy for a ref with good eyesight to see, but one who missed Deeney's non-penalty impossible.
Still home form is impressive. Not conceded since Reading and not one from open play under Sannino or since Yeovil in November.
This squad not reached its full potential - perhaps it never will - but with the likes of Toszer playing well and Deeney and Pudil getting better with each game who knows?[/p][/quote]If only Zola had taken on Saninno as his Assistant last Summer and not his mate Porcu things may have worked out differently. With Zola's attack and Saninno's defence coaching the squad may have reached it's potential.[/p][/quote]Agreed, or at least someone like SanninoSAHornet

In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.

He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.

so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.

love u all very much.

HC

In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.
He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.
so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.
love u all very much.
HCHornet Cornet

Hornet Cornet wrote:
In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.

He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.

so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.

love u all very much.

HC

You have got a talent there, but the poem lacks cohesion. The second section joins up but in the other two seem unconnected, (and the first section is a bit weird).

[quote][p][bold]Hornet Cornet[/bold] wrote:
In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.
He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.
so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.
love u all very much.
HC[/p][/quote]You have got a talent there, but the poem lacks cohesion. The second section joins up but in the other two seem unconnected, (and the first section is a bit weird).Harry's Bar

Hornet Cornet wrote:
In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.

He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.

so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.

love u all very much.

HC

You have got a talent there, but the poem lacks cohesion. The second section joins up but in the other two seem unconnected, (and the first section is a bit weird).

Thank you Harry's Bar. You're comments are most welcome.
Could you write a little ditty?

HC

[quote][p][bold]Harry's Bar[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Hornet Cornet[/bold] wrote:
In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.
He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.
so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.
love u all very much.
HC[/p][/quote]You have got a talent there, but the poem lacks cohesion. The second section joins up but in the other two seem unconnected, (and the first section is a bit weird).[/p][/quote]Thank you Harry's Bar. You're comments are most welcome.
Could you write a little ditty?
HCHornet Cornet

Hornet Cornet wrote:
In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.

He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.

so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.

love u all very much.

HC

You have got a talent there, but the poem lacks cohesion. The second section joins up but in the other two seem unconnected, (and the first section is a bit weird).

Thank you Harry's Bar. You're comments are most welcome.
Could you write a little ditty?

HC

I don't think you liked my post, I think you took offence, I should of sat on the fence.

[quote][p][bold]Hornet Cornet[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Harry's Bar[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Hornet Cornet[/bold] wrote:
In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.
He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.
so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.
love u all very much.
HC[/p][/quote]You have got a talent there, but the poem lacks cohesion. The second section joins up but in the other two seem unconnected, (and the first section is a bit weird).[/p][/quote]Thank you Harry's Bar. You're comments are most welcome.
Could you write a little ditty?
HC[/p][/quote]I don't think you liked my post, I think you took offence, I should of sat on the fence.Harry's Bar

Hornet Cornet wrote:
In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.

He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.

so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.

love u all very much.

HC

You have got a talent there, but the poem lacks cohesion. The second section joins up but in the other two seem unconnected, (and the first section is a bit weird).

Thank you Harry's Bar. You're comments are most welcome.
Could you write a little ditty?

HC

I don't think you liked my post, I think you took offence, I should of sat on the fence.

It was a most splendid post my friend. You going to poets a bit?

[quote][p][bold]Harry's Bar[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Hornet Cornet[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Harry's Bar[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Hornet Cornet[/bold] wrote:
In my slumber,
I dreamt of Humber,
All covered in slippery fog,
I went out in town and found a park,
And there I found Jonathan Hogg.
He was sad when he felt bad,
For he loved the Hornets so,
he wanted to stay, he wanted to play,
But his missus she said no.
so here we are and not going very far,
We are not the hornets of old,
But one thing is clear, I do love my beer.
My blood will always be gold.
love u all very much.
HC[/p][/quote]You have got a talent there, but the poem lacks cohesion. The second section joins up but in the other two seem unconnected, (and the first section is a bit weird).[/p][/quote]Thank you Harry's Bar. You're comments are most welcome.
Could you write a little ditty?
HC[/p][/quote]I don't think you liked my post, I think you took offence, I should of sat on the fence.[/p][/quote]It was a most splendid post my friend. You going to poets a bit?Hornet Cornet